Potassium Chromate
Potassium Chromate is an inorganic chemical compound and a bright yellow crystalline solid commonly used as an oxidizing agent and pigment. It serves as a source of chromate ions in various chemical, industrial, and laboratory applications. Due to its toxic and carcinogenic nature, careful handling and strict regulatory compliance are essential. Potassium Chromate is widely used in corrosion inhibition, dyeing, and chemical synthesis processes.
Primary Uses
Chemical Industry
Used as an oxidizing agent in organic synthesis and analytical chemistry.
Serves as a key reagent in qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses, including detection of chloride ions.
Acts as a corrosion inhibitor in cooling systems and metal finishing baths.
Pigments and Dyes
Used in the production of yellow pigments for paints, inks, and dyes.
Employed in leather tanning to improve color fastness and durability.
Electroplating
Used in chromium plating baths to enhance plating quality and uniformity.
Serves as an additive in electroplating processes for metals.
Secondary Uses
Wood Preservation
Utilized in wood treatment formulations to prevent fungal decay and insect damage.
Photography
Employed in photographic processes as a sensitizer and in photoengraving.
Laboratory Reagent
Used as a reagent for chemical tests, including the Mohr method for chloride determination.
Textile Industry
Used in dyeing and printing textiles to improve color fixation and brightness.
Basic Identification Attributes
Chemical Name (IUPAC): Potassium chromate
Common/Trade Name: Potassium Chromate
CAS Number: 7789-00-6
HS Code: 2833.11 (Chromates)
Synonyms: Kâ‚‚CrOâ‚„; chromate of potassium
Physical & Chemical Properties
Physical State: Solid, crystalline powder or granules
Color & Odor: Bright yellow; odorless
Solubility: Highly soluble in water (about 57 g/100 mL at 20°C)
Melting Point: 975°C (decomposes)
Density: ~2.7 g/cm³
Stability: Stable under normal conditions; strong oxidizer
Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification: Carcinogenic (Category 1B), Mutagenic (Category 2), Toxic to aquatic life
Toxicity: Highly toxic and carcinogenic; harmful if inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through skin
Exposure Limits: Strict limits; avoid any exposure; use in well-ventilated environments with protective equipment
Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions: Store in tightly sealed containers, in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from incompatible materials
Container Type: Glass or plastic containers resistant to strong oxidizers
Shelf Life: Typically 1–3 years if stored properly
Handling Precautions: Use full PPE including gloves, respirators, and protective clothing; avoid dust generation and skin contact
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
Complies with hazardous chemical regulations including OSHA, REACH, and local environmental laws
Classified as a hazardous substance requiring specialized transport and storage
Environmental & Health Impact
Biodegradability: Not biodegradable
Ecotoxicity: Extremely toxic to aquatic organisms; avoid environmental release
Bioaccumulation: Potential for bioaccumulation in aquatic organisms
Safety Handling Precautions
PPE Required: Full protective gloves, goggles, respirators, and protective clothing mandatory
Handling Guidelines: Handle in fume hoods or well-ventilated areas; prevent dust formation; do not inhale or ingest
Storage Measures: Store securely to prevent leaks and spills; isolate from reducing agents and organic materials
First Aid Measures
Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately; seek urgent medical attention for respiratory distress
Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing; wash skin thoroughly with soap and water; seek medical help for burns or irritation
Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with water for at least 15 minutes; seek immediate medical assistance
Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; rinse mouth; seek emergency medical treatment immediately
Firefighting Measures
Fire Hazards: Strong oxidizer; can intensify fire and cause explosions if mixed with combustible materials
Extinguishing Media: Use water spray or fog; do not use dry chemical or COâ‚‚ alone
Special Precautions: Firefighters must wear full protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus
Hazardous Combustion Products: May produce toxic chromium oxides and potassium oxides
Related products
Methoxy propyl acetate PMA
Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)
Primary Uses
- Coatings and Paints
- Solvent in lacquers, varnishes, and paints to improve application and drying.
- Enhances film formation and gloss.
- Adhesives and Sealants
- Used as a solvent in adhesives, particularly for bonding plastics and rubber.
- Printing Inks
- Serves as a solvent to improve ink flow and drying characteristics.
- Cleaning and Degreasing
- Effective solvent for cleaning metal surfaces and removing grease and oil.
Secondary Uses
- Chemical Intermediate
- Used in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and other chemicals.
- Laboratory Reagent
- Applied as a solvent in analytical and synthetic laboratory procedures.
- Plastics and Rubber Processing
- Utilized as a solvent in polymer coatings and rubber cements.